What are the symptoms of giardia lamblia?

Others have a prolonged illness, often with symptoms that come and go. They may have recurrent stomachaches, foul-smelling stools, increased gas, decreased appetite, anemia, or slow growth. Sometimes periods of constipation alternate with periods of diarrhea. The diarrhea generally does not contain blood, pus, or mucus. The diarrhea may be watery – but more often is thick and frequent.

Many people with Giardia have no symptoms at all.

Is giardia lamblia contagious?

Giardia is spread from person to person via the fecal-oral route. It commonly spreads through day-care centers. It has been known to spread when diapered toddlers swim in inadequately chlorinated pools or water parks. And Giardia can spread when the parasites get into food or drinking water, either from animal stools, or from food preparers who have not washed their hands adequately.

How long does giardia lamblia last?

Symptoms usually do not begin for 1 to 4 weeks after the person swallows the parasites. The infection may resolve on its own, or may persist until the person is treated.

How is giardia lamblia diagnosed?

The diagnosis is suspected based on the child’s story. It is confirmed by stool tests specifically looking for Giardia.

Dr. Greene is the founder of DrGreene.com (cited by the AMA as “the pioneer physician Web site”), a practicing pediatrician, father of four, & author of Raising Baby Green & Feeding Baby Green. He appears frequently in the media including such venues as the The New York Times, the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, & the Dr. Oz Show.